UK government announces £ 400 million boost for grassroots sports facilities
The UK government recently announced at least £ 400 million for new and upgraded grassroots sports facilities across the country.
According to the Grounds Management Association (GMA), this significant funding package recognizes the vital role that high-quality sports infrastructure plays in supporting participation in communities across the country. It also reflects the collective efforts of the wider sporting sector, including the often-unsung work of grounds management professionals and volunteers.
Since the launch of the Pitch Advisory Service in 2014, the GMA has carried out more than 50,000 pitch inspections in England, working alongside National Governing Bodies (NGBs) as well as local authorities and volunteers to raise standards and improve playing surfaces. The Pitch Advisory Service now extends across Wales.
“We welcome the government investment as a real boost for grassroots sport,” said Geoff Webb, CEO at the GMA. “ Over the past decade, the Pitch Advisory Service — working hand in hand with national governing bodies and local volunteers — has helped transform the quality of many community pitches across the UK. This funding allows us to continue that vital work, ensuring clubs and communities benefit from well-maintained facilities that inspire more people to play and stay in sport.”
Beyond technical support, the GMA plays a central role in training and upskilling the grounds management workforce all the way from volunteers at grassroots clubs to full-time grounds staff at elite venues.
“Sport tells our national story in a way few other things can — uniting communities, inspiring millions, and showcasing our nation on the global stage,” said Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy. “This major backing for world-class events will drive economic growth across the country, delivering on our Plan for Change. Coupled with strong investment into grassroots sport, we’re creating a complete pathway to allow the next generation of sporting heroes to train and take part in sport in communities across the UK.”
Registration open for PGMS 2025 Annual Conference
Registration for the Professional Grounds Management Society 
(PGMS) 2025 Annual Conference, “Transform,” is open. Register before August 13 to get Early Bird pricing.
The annual conference — to be held October 21-24 in Louisville, Ky . — is designed to optimize interactions for hundreds of grounds management professionals and leave with implementable solutions to the latest grounds management challenges.
For more information and to register: https://pgms.org/page/2025AnnualConf.
Irrigation Show registration and housing now open
Registration and housing are now open for the 2025 Irrigation Show and Education Week in New Orleans, December 8-11. Whether you ’ re in ag or landscape, manufacturing or contracting, distribution or design, the Irrigation Show delivers the tools, connections and insights to help you succeed.
Discover the latest irrigation installation and maintenance solutions during the trade show, featuring the Startup Showcase and the 2025 New Product Contest Plaza.
Grow with continuing education — earn CEUs, sharpen your skills in expert-led sessions and take a certification exam.
Build connections with peers, suppliers and industry leaders during exciting networking events, like the Bayou Bash Welcome Event and The Big Easy Brewfest.
Explore the host city, celebrated for its rich culture, historic charm and lively atmosphere.
For more information, or to register, visit https://www.irrigation.org/2025Show.
Landscape professionals unite in service at Renewal & Remembrance
On July 14, approximately 400 landscape and lawn care professionals from throughout the country gathered in Washington, D.C ., for the National Association of Landscape Professionals’ (NALP) annual Renewal & Remembrance service event, bringing their skills and dedication to two of the nation’s most hallowed grounds: National Mall around the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
For nearly three decades, Renewal & Remembrance has been the landscape industry’s largest day of service, as volunteers donate their time, expertise, and equipment to honor America’s veterans and public servants. This year, teams will undertake vital projects such as pruning cherry trees at the FDR Memorial, applying lime, irrigation system updates, tree protection, plant installation, stump removal, and hardscape repairs to enhance these historic green spaces for future visitors.
“Renewal & Remembrance is a powerful example of our industry’s deep commitment to community , country, and stewardship,” said Britt Wood , National Association of Landscape Professionals CEO. “ It’s humbling to see so many professionals come together to care for sacred spaces that honor our nation’s heroes.”
This year’s event included a children’s program at Arlington National Cemetery designed to educate and engage the next generation in environmental stewardship and civic service.